Actress Kim Chiu has hit back at critics who slammed her for speaking out on national and political issues, asserting her right as a Filipino citizen and taxpayer to express her opinions.
In a social media post on May 14, the television host and actress expressed her disappointment over the intense backlash she received after voicing her stance on recent current events.
“Nakakalungkot. That’s what happens when concern and opinion don’t align with them—gusto agad patahimikin,” Kim wrote.
Chiu noted that while she has grown accustomed to the harsh nature of online criticism throughout her career, she emphasized that her background should not diminish her voice.
“Oo, Bisaya ko, pero Pilipino rin akong may karapatang magsalita at magpahayag ng saloobin,” she said.
The actress also touched upon her frustrations regarding governance and the utilization of public funds, questioning the ongoing controversies and political friction in the country.
“Masakit magbayad ng buwis tapos ganito ang nakikita natin. Hindi po tayo ang magkakalaban. Pare-pareho lang tayong mamamayan,” she added.
Concluding her post, Chiu made an appeal to netizens, urging the public to cease cyber-infighting and division online.
The backlash stemmed from Chiu’s recent public commentaries, which included remarks on the shooting incident at the Senate premises, as well as the reported surrender of an individual linked to Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.